Fashion fundamentals for fall

Jackie Collins, you aren't. A little leopard goes a long way. Choose low-key accents like this belt by Club Monaco ($59).

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Shopping, especially in the all-important fall season, can be an overwhelming experience. So we asked local image consultant Jocelyn Kessler to help you get started on a fall wardrobe. Here are some of the basics she recommends.

A good pair of boots: The ankle-length half-boot is "in" for fall and can be worn with pants or skirts. "Banana Republic has great runway-style boots, and no one will ever know how [little] you paid for them," Kessler says. If you want to splurge, "I love, love, love Michael Kors boots for fall."

Pencil skirt: "You can't get any better than Narciso Rodriguez ($650-$750, Nordstrom)," Kessler says. "The fit is like no other and they are timeless." A less expensive pick: Gap's cotton pencil skirt in a stretch twill ($44) or Banana Republic's wool crepe skirt ($78). "If you are curvy, go a size up from your normal size. If it's a little too big, then get it altered." Try a pencil skirt in black, gray or winter white.

A great belt: "Belts are so underrated, and yet they are so important for fall in both collection and lower-priced lines," Kessler says. "I think a belt can pull a great outfit together. I would belt cardigans, jackets, dresses and even some jean jackets." Kessler likes the Textured Leather Belt in Plum Raisin at Gap ($34.50).

Brooches: "I can't say enough how important the brooch is for fall," Kessler says. Wear one on your belt or handbag, or use it in lieu of a button to hook together a tweed jacket or cardigan. Try thrift stores or vintage shops for something one-of-a-kind; Banana Republic also carries a wide selection of brooches ($22-$50).

Coat: "My one super pick is the belted black trench by Isaac Mizrahi for Target," Kessler says. "It is elegant and can be worn with anything. Put your great brooch on the lapel or wear over jeans. The price is unbelievable at $39.99." Another option: the oversized bomber jacket is very fresh for fall.

 
Leopard print: "Leopard print is hot for fall because it is ladylike and sexy at the same time," Kessler says. "It is a print that is classic and versatile, aesthetically pleasing to the eye and there are a multitude of ways to wear it." She suggests a leopard-print scarf to accent a simple black turtleneck or a leopard-print skirt with boots or heels. Club Monaco has a leopard-print faux fur coat ($399) for fall, as well as leopard-print accessories like belts ($39-$59) and wristlets ($99).

Pamela Sitt, Seattle Times staff reporter